All of us have had an experience with cancer, either we knew someone that had it or we battled with the disease ourself. The WCHD spends a lot of time and effort screening cancers as early as possible, because the sooner we can find the disease the better your chances are of beating the disease. In this section you'll find information about a few of the common forms of cancer and what you can do to minimize your risk, as well as links to the screening services we offer and how to set up an appointment.

Different Types of Cancers

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Utahn’s are more exposed to cancer causing ultraviolet light because of the high altitude, clear skies, and the large population of fair skinned people.

Causes and Risks

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun is a major cause of skin cancer. The harmful effects of UV radiation accumulate over time, so sun protection should be a lifelong habit, not just an occasional activity. Many children receive about 3 time more radiation then adults. Parents need to take extra precautions for their children.

Tips to Prevent UV Radiation

Make sure you sunscreen contains -

Titanium Dioxide

Zinc Oxide

States "Broad Spectrum" on label

Use sunscreen with a SPF 15 or higher

Sun Safety tips

Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, more often if in the water

The suns rays are most intense between 10 am and 4 pm

Cover up with T-shirts, long shorts, and wide brim hats

Cool Pool Program

During the summer the WCHD offers a $5.00 Subway gift cards to children who attend free sun safety lessons during Parks & Recreation swim sessions. Kids, ages 5 – 10, can earn the gift cards by completing all four 10 minute lessons before or after their swim lesson each day.

Be sure to check back in May for Cool Pool dates and times.

Please click on the link below to be taken to the health department's "Tobacco Prevention" page